Kunda Park-based Springfree Trampoline has developed a world-first outdoor interactive gaming and fitness system that is taking the traditional backyard favourite to new heights through the use of technology.

Springfree Trampoline Managing Director Leanne Fretwell said the innovation received top honours in two categories at the recent Australian Good Design Awards.

“We have developed ‘tgoma’ which is an acronym for ‘Taking Games Outside and Make them Active’. tgoma incorporates specialised sensor technology on our Springfree Trampoline mat that directly integrates with the user’s own tablet device via Bluetooth,” Ms Fretwell said.

“Studies have shown that kids are now spending an average of 4.5 hours a day in front of screens which means less playing outside. Instead of fighting this trend we decided to leverage technology to transform screen time from an isolating and inactive activity to a healthy and engaging experience.

“The free tgoma app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play and there are currently seven signature games designed to engage the entire family with options for educational games, fun games and even interactive fitness workouts for adults.”

Mrs Fretwell said Springfree Trampoline has thrived since setting up its Asia-Pacific head office on the Sunshine Coast in 2004.

“Our production rollout is now 200 times what it was in our inaugural year here and our Kunda Park team has grown from its initial four to 50 employees, fluctuating to 100 employees during holiday periods,” she said.

“Projects like the Sunshine Coast Airport Expansion will only further increase our ability to grow and invest more in innovation.

“We also recognise that the Sunshine Coast is becoming a hub for businesses and entrepreneurs achieving excellence in digital technology and we’re now calling on locals with a flair for digital technology or gaming to help further develop our tgoma system by sending us their ideas for new interactive games!”

Economic Portfolio Councillor Stephen Robinson said it was terrific to see more businesses like Springree Trampoline thriving on the Sunshine Coast and increasing productivity and competitiveness through the use of digital technology.

“Springfree Trampoline has joined the likes of Youi and Auto & General as thriving international businesses that have chosen to set up their global or regional headquarters right here on the Sunshine Coast,” Cr Robinson said.

“Their tgoma system is an outstanding invention and I encourage all locals who have a flair for both gaming and digital technology to send in their ideas to Springfree Trampoline.

“Knowledge and Professional Services is one of seven high value industries that are keys to future economic and employment growth in the Sunshine Coast’s Regional Economic Development Strategy and one of the key priorities for council is supporting our bright sparks, entrepreneurs and outside the box thinkers."